Fixing a Clogged Drain: Some Pointers | Blog

Is your sink suddenly slow to drain, or your bathtub totally backed up? For many cases, there’s no need to rush to call a plumber for fixing a clogged drain. Homeowners can use these tips and tools to save themselves time and money.

Fixing a Clogged Drain

First, clean out the stopper and pull visible matter out to see if that fixes the issue.

When possible, use a funnel-cup plunger (such as you would use for a toilet) to clear a clog. Be sure to create a strong seal. If unclogging a bathroom sink or bathtub, plug the overflow hole with a wet rag. Plunge with a quick, downward stroke, and pull the plunger back up without lifting off or breaking the seal. This can take 15 to 20 minutes, so be patient! You can typically feel the clog give way.

You can try dissolving a kitchen grease or food clog by pouring 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 of white vinegar. Cover with a stopper or wet rag, and wait about 10 minutes. Flush with boiling water.

Tough clogs may require the use of a drain auger, also called a snake. Feed the auger down the drain while twisting it, and steadily push through the blockage when you get to it. Push and pull the tool to expand the hole, then flush with water.

It’s best to avoid caustic chemicals if possible, since they’re bad for the environment and your health. If you must use something, look for an alternative product which contains microorganisms that eat the material causes the clog, converting it to water and carbon dioxide.

When All Else Fails, Call the Experts

If these tricks just aren’t cutting it, don’t go to extremes to try to solve the issue. Call a professional plumber to check for a more serious issue and to get the job done safely.